New Grants To Improve Shellfish Habitats In WA

OLYMPIA, WA — Nearly a dozen projects are slated to receive grants from the state Department of Health to restore and protect shellfish habitats across Washington. The DOH announced $5.5 million in funding Tuesday, selected by the agency's Shellfish Strategic Initiative Advisory Team.

Officials said each winning project focuses on state priorities, including reducing pollution. Washington is the top producer of farmed shellfish in the United States, but health officials estimate 16,000 acres of shellfish beds are currently closed to harvesting due to pollution from water runoff, pet waste, boating discharge and sewage.

"Washington's marine waters are a dynamic and vital part of our unique ecosystem," said Todd Philips, the DOH director of environmental health and safety. "Partnerships with these awardees, along with agencies such as the EPA, emphasize the commitment and importance of advancing our goal of reducing fecal coliform pollution and protecting Puget Sound shellfish growing areas, with the overarching objective of protecting public health."

The funded projects include shellfish improvements planned in King, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston, Mason and Skagit counties. Details on each project are available here.